Headline
Mass Protests Rock the Philippines Over Flood-Control Corruption
Coleene Singca/PCI
By Ari Lacanilao, Philippine Canadian Inquirer
Tens of thousands of Filipinos took to the streets of Manila and other major cities on Sunday to denounce massive corruption allegations linked to flood-control projects. The rallies, timed on the anniversary of the 1972 declaration of martial law, have become one of the largest demonstrations in recent years, reflecting growing public anger toward entrenched corruption.
Billions in Question
Government audits revealed irregularities in flood-control projects launched since 2022, with ₱545 billion (around US$9.5 billion) in spending now under scrutiny. Reports cite incomplete, substandard, or even non-existent “ghost” projects.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has vowed that “no one will be spared” as an independent commission begins its probe. The scandal has already forced political consequences, including the resignation of House Speaker Martin Romualdez, a cousin of the president, amid mounting pressure for accountability.
Widespread Mobilization
Protesters came from all walks of life—students, church groups, civic organizations, and labor unions—forming a united front against corruption. Most demonstrations were peaceful, though police reported scattered clashes near government buildings, with dozens arrested and some officers injured.
For many Filipinos, the scandal is particularly painful. In a country that endures typhoons and floods each year, misuse of disaster-prevention funds has been described as a betrayal of the people.
Celebrities Join the Call
Artists and public figures also joined the movement, amplifying its visibility. Some celebrities present in different locations include:
Anne Curtis
Donny Pangilinan
Jackie Gonzaga
Elijah Canlas
Mika Salamanca
Andrea Brillantes
Jasmine Curtis
Angel Aquino
Jodi Sta. Maria
Julia Barretto
Ding Dong Dantes
Nadine Lustre
Catriona Gray
Among them was popular comedian and host Vice Ganda, who delivered a fiery speech that drew cheers from the crowd.
Vice directly challenged President Marcos Jr., saying:
“PBBM, upang magkaroon ng magandang legasiya, ipakulong mo lahat ng magnanakaw. Inaasahan ka namin. Swine-swelduhan ka namin PBBM. Kami nagpapasahod sa inyo. Tapos na panahon takot sa gobyerno. Takutin natin. Ipakulong lahat. Lahat. Bawiin mga ari-arian.”
He further urged that corrupt officials be punished severely, even calling for the death penalty. His remarks echoed the frustration of many citizens who believe corruption robs Filipinos of safety, dignity, and basic services.
What Comes Next
The independent probe is expected to take months, but protesters insist that investigations must be followed by arrests, prosecutions, and the recovery of stolen funds.
As one banner in Manila read: “Floods we can endure. Corruption we cannot.”
For many, this movement is no longer just about flood-control projects—it is a demand for an end to a culture of impunity that has defined Philippine politics for decades.
